Whether it’s for keeping your step rate high, getting pace instructions from a smart app, or just tuning out to the best albums, good headphones are a necessity for running. With so many options out there, it's difficult to choose which one is suitable for you. Running is a high-movement activity that leads to you being covered in sweat, and most headphones just aren't up to the challenge.
The best headphones for running should not only sound fantastic but also be tough enough to survive the rigors of an intense workout. They need to be able to resist sweat and stay in place while you move. Not sure where to start? We’ve put together a list of the most comfortable, longest-lasting, best wireless headphones for running.
Best Over-ear Headphones for Running
Jabra Elite 85h Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
When it’s earmuff kind of cold or you just really like a full sound during your run, the Jabra Elite 85h over-ear headphones are for you. The 36-hour battery can easily last through a long-haul flight, an Uber ride, and a workout at the hotel. The active noise cancellation eliminates any unwanted noise, from overly chatty treadmill neighbors to screaming babies on planes (which means they're also among the best travel headphones too!).
The fit is slightly more snug so they stay on well during movement. SmartSound technology can automatically detect whether you need noise cancellation, such as when in a noisy cafe, while HearThrough actively brings all the sounds when you're running on the street. The included 3.5mm headphone cable can plug into planes when Bluetooth isn’t an option. A quick 15-minute charge gets 5 hours of listening.
Best High-tech Headphone Alternative
Bose Frames Tempo Sport Bluetooth Sunglasses
Runners love paring down. The less excess “stuff,” the easier it is to move. That’s why Bose’s Frame Tempo Sport Bluetooth Sunglasses combine sunglasses and headphones into one seamless, future-forward device. The sport sunglasses not only look great but feature a revolutionary Open Ear Audio design that allows you to listen to your music and surroundings simultaneously in an entirely unique way. Plus, silicone nose pads and a featherweight nylon frame ensure they’re comfortable and secure no matter how hard your workout.
Best Lightweight Headphones for Running
Sennheiser CX Sport Bluetooth Sports Headphones
Fitting on the smaller side, the Sennheiser CX Sport offers a no-frills, lightweight running headphone with a solid sound. The flexible earfins keep them tucked in your ears without pulling down at all. You can adjust the fit with three different ear sleeves and fins. The six-hour battery can cover plenty of miles but if you need a touch more juice, a 10-minute charge gives you an extra hour of listening. The whole setup weighs in at a feathery half-ounce.
Best for High-intensity Workouts
V-MODA BassFit In-ear Wireless Sport Headphones
The V-Moda name is trusted by some of the top DJs and producers in the world. The BassFit Wireless are one of the brand's earliest and best entries into the sports headphone world. They come with dual earfins and hooks to customize the fit and stability (they can be worn with or without either) for high-intensity workouts and runs. The earfins might be enough for a regular run, but for that trail run or intense Ninja Warrior workout coming up, throw on the ear hooks as well. They’ll last 11 hours on a single charge and can add another 2.5 hours with a quick 15-minute charge.
Best Budget Headphones for Running
Tribit MoveBuds H1 Wireless Earbuds
Tribit proves that you needn't splash out on $200 headphones for running to get great-sounding audio. The MoveBuds H1 Wireless Earbuds feature everything hardcore runners need in a pair of earbuds. They sound great and stay in place during even the hardest of runs with a stable ear-hanging design. The IPX8 rating guarantees a sweatproof, waterproof construction, and anti-bacterial ear tips protect your ears no matter how nasty your workouts may get. The integrated battery delivers up to 15 hours of playtime, while the included charging case adds another 50 for a total of 65 hours.
Best Reviewed Running Headphones on Amazon
Samsung Galaxy Buds True Wireless Earbuds
With an average rating of nearly five stars out of more than 43,000 Amazon reviews, it's clear the Samsung Galaxy Buds not only sound good, they feel good, too. They come with three adjustable ear- and wing-tip sizes to help you find the perfect fit so they'll remain in place while you jog or run. Additionally, the earbuds flaunt a splash-resistant technology, which means they can handle spills, sweat, and splashes. Just make sure to activate the Quick Ambient mode if you want to stay aware of what's happening around you.
Best for Casual Workouts
Amazon Echo Buds Wireless Ear Buds (2nd Gen)
Amazon's second-gen Echo Buds are built to move with you. This pair promises a comfortable in-ear seal with three different eartip sizes included, resulting in immersive sound quality and a fit that stays securely in place. They are also sweat-resistant so there's no need to worry about moisture damage while you exercise. Truly Echo, these wireless earbuds have Alexa built-in so you can make calls, listen to music, and more with just your voice. Plus, the included charging case adds 15 extra hours of playback time.
Best for Fitness Junkies
Jabra Elite Sport Earbuds
Fitness junkies will be glad to know that the Jabra Elite Sport are more than just earbuds. This model is equipped with a clinical-grade in-ear precision heart rate monitor for tracking and analyzing your fitness progress further. The earbuds come complete with three sets of ear wings, ear gels, and foam tips, ensuring a stable, comfortable fit that stays put even during the most intense day and night runs. Their design is waterproof and sweat-resistant for total exercise readiness.
Best Noise-canceling Headphones for Running
Technics True Wireless Earbuds
From design to performance, these Technics earbuds deliver. This pair is able to produce smooth and detailed sound with a nice bass response, making listening to music immersive and enjoyable. They also boast advanced noise cancellation technology along with an ambient sound amplification feature, allowing you to control how much noise you want to let in or block out. Aside from being lightweight and comfortable, the earbuds are protected against splashes and sweat thanks to a solid IPX4 rating.
